How can BIM improve the design of membrane structures?

1 BIM basics

BIM is a digital process that integrates and manages information across the entire lifecycle of a building project, from conception to operation. BIM allows different stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and owners, to collaborate and coordinate on a shared 3D model of the building, which contains not only geometry, but also data on materials, properties, functions, costs, schedules, and performance. BIM can help reduce errors, conflicts, waste, and delays, as well as enhance quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

2 BIM benefits

BIM can offer many advantages when designing membrane structures, such as enabling parametric modeling and optimization of complex shapes and patterns to reduce material consumption and improve aesthetics. It can also facilitate structural analysis and simulation of membrane behavior, accounting for nonlinear effects, like prestress, large deformations, and buckling, as well as dynamic effects, such as wind, snow, or temperature. BIM also supports multidisciplinary collaboration among different design teams - architects, structural engineers, fabricators, and installers - who can communicate and exchange information through the model. Lastly, it helps to improve visualization and communication of the design intent and construction process to better understand and appreciate the membrane structure and its challenges.

3 BIM challenges

BIM can present some difficulties when designing membrane structures, including the need for specialized software and skills to model and analyze them, which are not always accessible or standardized. Additionally, BIM requires high computational power and accuracy to manage the large amount of data and complex calculations associated with membrane modeling and simulation. Furthermore, there can be uncertainties and variations in the material properties and fabrication and installation methods of membrane structures, which can influence the precision and dependability of the BIM model and its results.

4 BIM best practices

To optimize the advantages of BIM for designing membrane structures, some best practices should be followed. This includes selecting the right software and tools, such as Rhino, Grasshopper, SAP2000, ANSYS, and others, that are capable of handling membrane modeling and analysis. It is also important to create clear and consistent workflows and protocols for data exchange and coordination among different design teams and software platforms. This can be achieved by using common file formats, standards, and nomenclature. Additionally, it is necessary to verify and validate the BIM model and its results against physical tests and measurements, like tension tests, mock-ups, and surveys, to ensure the quality and accuracy of the design and construction.

5 BIM examples

BIM has been utilized to design some remarkable membrane structures around the world, such as the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center in Kazakhstan, the London Olympic Stadium in the UK, and the National Stadium in Singapore. This technology can improve the design of these structures by allowing parametric modeling, structural analysis, multidisciplinary collaboration, and visualization of complex and dynamic forms. However, it can also present some challenges, such as needing specialized software, high computational power, and verification and validation of the model and its results. By adhering to best practices like selecting the appropriate tools, setting up clear workflows, and validating the model, BIM can help create innovative and sustainable membrane structures that can enhance the built environment.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?